Waitress Salary in Phoenix, AZ
Waitresses in Phoenix, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Phoenix is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for food service roles in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Phoenix, AZ?
The salary of a Waitress in Phoenix varies by experience level and establishment. Here's an overview of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Waitresses in Phoenix Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Phoenix often earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings depending on the restaurant type and customer traffic.
Waitress Salary in Phoenix vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Phoenix earn slightly less at about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually.
This difference can be influenced by local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Phoenix for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer attractive wages for Waitresses:
- Paradise Valley: $15.50 per hour
- Scottsdale: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses in Scottsdale earn the highest hourly rates nearby, reflecting the area's upscale dining scene.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Phoenix?
Several factors affect how much a Waitress can earn in Phoenix:
- Experience: Increased experience generally leads to better pay and more tips.
- Skills: Excellent customer service and upselling skills can enhance earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants usually offer higher base wages and better tips.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might pay more or yield higher tips.
- Location: Working in high-end areas like Scottsdale can boost income significantly.
How To Become a Waitress in Phoenix
Starting a career as a Waitress in Phoenix involves a few key steps:
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal skills are essential for success in this role.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: Earning an Arizona Food Handler Card is mandatory for working in food service.
- Consider Hospitality Training: Programs like the Scottsdale Community College Culinary Arts Program and Arizona Culinary Institute offer comprehensive training, including kitchen management and hospitality skills useful to Waitresses.
- Achieve Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and may be required by employers.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions in casual dining or fast casual restaurants can provide valuable experience.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Phoenix
Some of the top establishments hiring Waitresses in Phoenix include:
- The Capital Grille
- Mastro's Steakhouse
- The Henry
Establishments That Waitresses in Phoenix Work At
Waitresses in Phoenix typically work in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: These often provide steady work but moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual: These establishments may offer faster-paced work and similar wages to casual restaurants.
- Fine Dining: Higher wages and better tipping potential, but may require more experience and skills.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Tips can be higher, especially during busy nights and weekends.
Each type of establishment impacts overall earnings through base pay differences and tipping culture.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Phoenix for Waitresses
If you are interested in related careers to Waitressing, consider these roles:
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server positions, all offering different experiences and potential earnings within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Phoenix
Waitresses should be knowledgeable about relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities in Arizona.
- Learn about health regulations and food safety via the Arizona Department of Health Services.
- State labor laws, wage regulations, and legislative updates are available on the Arizona State Legislature website.
- For tax matters, including Federal income tax, visit the Internal Revenue Service.